I love making this Garlic Olive Oil Dip when I want something simple yet full of bold, comforting flavor. The roasted garlic turns soft and sweet, blending beautifully with rich olive oil, fragrant herbs, and a hint of citrus. I find it perfect for dipping warm, crusty bread or serving as part of a cozy appetizer spread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how easy this recipe is to prepare with just a handful of pantry staples. Roasting the garlic transforms its sharp bite into a mellow, buttery flavor that I find irresistible. I also appreciate how versatile this dip is—I can serve it at casual gatherings, alongside pasta dishes, or as a starter for a dinner party. The combination of herbs, lemon juice, and olive oil creates a balanced flavor that feels both rustic and elegant.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 whole garlic bulb
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon dried rosemary
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Crusty bread (such as baguette, ciabatta, or focaccia) for dipping
Directions
I start by preheating my oven to 400°F (200°C). I slice the top off the garlic bulb to expose the cloves, drizzle it with a little olive oil, wrap it in foil, and roast it for 20–25 minutes until the cloves are soft and golden. I let it cool slightly before handling.
Once the garlic is cool enough, I squeeze the roasted cloves out of their skins into a small bowl. Using a fork, I mash them into a smooth paste.
I then add the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, dried rosemary, dried oregano, red pepper flakes if I want a little heat, and salt and pepper to taste. I stir everything together until well combined.
To serve, I transfer the dip to a shallow dish and place slices of crusty bread alongside it for dipping.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4–6 servings, depending on how generously I serve it.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 25–30 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add a splash of balsamic vinegar when I want a tangy twist. If I am in the mood for extra richness, I sprinkle in some freshly grated Parmesan cheese. For a fresher flavor, I like adding chopped fresh parsley or thyme. I can also drizzle a little extra olive oil on top before serving for a beautiful finish.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When I am ready to serve it again, I let it come to room temperature so the olive oil softens and the flavors shine. If needed, I give it a gentle stir before serving.
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FAQs
Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of roasting a whole bulb?
I prefer roasting a whole bulb because it gives the dip a sweeter, milder flavor. Pre-minced garlic will taste sharper and won’t provide the same creamy texture I get from roasted cloves.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, I often prepare it a day in advance. I store it in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
What type of olive oil works best?
I like using a good-quality extra virgin olive oil since it is a main ingredient and strongly influences the overall flavor of the dip.
Is the red pepper flakes necessary?
No, I treat red pepper flakes as optional. I add them when I want a subtle kick of heat, but I can easily leave them out for a milder version.
What else can I serve with this dip besides bread?
I sometimes serve it with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or even drizzle it over pasta. I also enjoy using it as a flavorful spread for sandwiches.
Conclusion
I find this Garlic Olive Oil Dip to be a simple yet impressive addition to any table. With its rich roasted garlic flavor, fragrant herbs, and smooth olive oil base, it delivers big taste with minimal effort. Whenever I make it, I am reminded that the most basic ingredients can create something truly special.
📖 Recipe:
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Garlic Olive Oil Dip
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A simple yet bold Garlic Olive Oil Dip made with sweet roasted garlic, extra virgin olive oil, fragrant herbs, and a hint of lemon—perfect for dipping warm crusty bread or serving as a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients
1 whole garlic bulb
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Crusty bread (such as baguette, ciabatta, or focaccia) for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the top off the garlic bulb to expose the cloves. Drizzle with a little olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 20–25 minutes until soft and golden. Let cool slightly.
- Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins into a small bowl and mash into a smooth paste using a fork.
- Add the remaining olive oil, lemon juice, dried rosemary, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer to a shallow serving dish and serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra tang.
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness (if not vegan).
Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a bright flavor boost.
Drizzle additional olive oil on top before serving for presentation.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and bring to room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (about 2 tablespoons)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
